Julia Tanner
October 2026 - Welcoming a Visitor
About the Image(s)
A metallic green sweat bee visits a luxurious pink lotus bloom.
Lotus at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens in Washington, DC approach peak bloom in early July. The petals welcome pollinators as they open to the morning sun. Shadows cast inside the blossom by 9 AM summer sun, in this case, I think added beneficially to the composition.
I go to Kenilworth equipped with my 600mm prime rather than a macro setup, anticipating the resident night herons and occasional falcons. I find the 600mm also handles flowers and insects nicely, and I can carry less weight by not having to switch out my equipment.
Nikon Z8, Z 600mm f6.3 PF VR S, ISO 450, 1/2000
3 comments posted
Julia, photographing Lotus flowers in all stages is a delight. I have been several times to the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens in Washington, when we happen to be in Rockville, MD visiting our son, and I always bring my long lens to be able to create images like this. The colors are very vivid, and the shadows inside of the flower give depth and 3D quality to the image. The bee in flight, despite of being small, gives life to the frame. Great capture Posted: 10/08/2026 12:33:55
Hi Julia,
I really like the sense of scale evoked by your image. To the bee, the flower is enormous and the bee is navigating around that flower like a helicopter might approach an airfield. The image suggests that an entire world exists within that flower. Great colors and detail. Posted: 10/08/2026 14:31:36
I really like the sense of scale evoked by your image. To the bee, the flower is enormous and the bee is navigating around that flower like a helicopter might approach an airfield. The image suggests that an entire world exists within that flower. Great colors and detail. Posted: 10/08/2026 14:31:36
Julia, I love the serene mood that you captured of this blushing lotus in a quiet, breathless moment. Your lighting highlights the gentle pink hues of the flower and the vibrant contrast with the deep green bee. I've photographed lotus flowers at the Huntington Gardens last summer, but your glowing image is exceptional. Posted: 10/08/2026 18:24:35